Alabama Football has its ups (LSU) and its downs (Ole Miss) this season, but once again, are in great position to make another run at the National Championship. Derrek Henry is having a Heiman-like season, while the defensive-line is the best in the country and the best it has been under Nick Saban. That being said there are many parts of this Alabama team that need improving if they want to have a shot at winning the programs 16th title this season. Let’s explore them.
1. Cam Robinson
After being named an All-American as a freshman, many thought Robinson would have a breakout year in 2015, solidifying himself as the nation’s top offensive lineman. Unfortunately, the exact opposite has happened. Robinson has been plagued this season by penalties. He has also been slow to react to the pass rush this season as well.
Offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin described Robinson's season as, “a tough one." Robinson will have to get better quickly because the likelihood of facing a team from the Big-12 (Oklahoma) and their quick outside linebackers is becoming more of a possibility, and quarterback Jake Coker will need Robinson to protect his blindside and give him a chance in the passing game.
2. Cyrus Jones
Jones is the Crimson Tide's best corner this season and has played okay. Yes, he has been shut down inside the red zone this season, but he has also struggled this season on getting beaten downfield. Yes, the improved play of Eddie Jackson has helped Jones, but often times he is getting beat on 1-on-1 for big gains.
Jones also will need to cut down on the pass interference calls if the Tide wants to have a shot against speedy wide receivers like Ohio State’s Braxton Miller. Cyrus has the ability to shut down anyone in college football, he now just needs to use that skill on the field.
3. Jake Coker
In his first year as the full-time starter, Coker has played well. His ability to extend plays with his feet has been a plus for the Tide this season, and he has been able to make good decisions when given time in the pocket. That being said, Coker has also struggled this season when he has been pressured.
Coker has held thrown multiple interceptions while trying to get rid of the football instead of taking a sack. Coker will have to learn to throw the ball away instead of causing a turnover. Against a team like Ohio State, Turnovers can be costly. As long as Coker continues to hand the ball off to Derrek Henry, and takes care of the football, Alabama should have no problem winning a playoff game with him as quarterback.
The college football playoff starts Dec 31 with the Cotton and Orange Bowls. Hopefully, Alabama can sort out its problems before then, and take care of business in route to the program's 16th National Title.
